The very first Audi A3 or Typ 8L had its European launch in 1996, signalling Audi's return into the smaller car market, It was the first VAG model to be deployed on the "PQ34" or "A4" platform, based losely on the main contemporary, the Volkswagen Golf Mk4. When first launched the only model available was the three-door hatchback body, This was Audi attempt to offer a more sporty image than that of the VW Golf, launched as both both front- and four-wheel drive. Every engine used the inline four-cylinder configuration, using a transversely mounted engine, A transverse engine is an engine that is mounted in a vehicle so that the engine's crankshaft axis is perpendicular to the long axis of the vehicle. With the launch of the the Audi A4, the Audi A3 switched to the five valves per cylinder engine.